Gun store window display draws controversy

Owner: It's all about freedom of speech

The window display at Collectible Arms and Ammo shows President Barack Obama as the "Firearms Salesman of the Year."

Store owner Keith Cox said it's all about freedom of speech, noting he's been getting words of support from customers ever since he put up the sign.

"The idea is to draw attention to the store, but also to make a statement as well," said Cox.

Beside the image of Obama are the images of Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin and Mao Zedong, above the statement, "All experts agree gun control works."

"They were kind of bad guys, so I don't think it's really good to advertise that in the front window," said Carole Brown, of Merrimack.

"I'm just surprised that they would put it up there. I mean, that's kind of rash," said Stephanie Mayo, of Merrimack.

Cox said one person came into the store and called the display "offensive."

"To be brave enough to come in here and give us that opinion, and I told him that I'd respect his right to free speech my whole life and I would hope that he would also respect ours and protect ours as well," said Cox.

For every negative response, Cox said there are plenty of positive reactions to the sign.

"I do support them, and I support their First Amendment rights," said Kimberly Shields, of Merrimack.

"You know, everybody is entitled to their opinion. I don't think it offends me," said Mark Lambert, of Nashua.

"They have every right to be offended as everyone else has their right to their opinion of whatever they think," said Joe Bradshaw, of Peterborough.

Cox said he has begun receiving calls from supporters across the country as the news of the display circulates online.

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